I've never been pregnant myself, but I imagine if and when it does happen, I'll likely do a whole lot of sitting, demanding and napping, and a lot less being a fitness warrior.
Lauren Ferris, 29, does not feel the same way. In fact, the Connecticut native shot this epic maternity photo shoot at a CrossFit studio where both she and her husband work out.
Even now, at 35 weeks pregnant, Ferris makes it to the gym four to five times a week.
She tells People, "CrossFit is something I've done four to five times a week for the past five years, and I did it all through my first pregnancy. I thought, if I'm going to do it through another pregnancy, I think it would be really cool to have pictures and memories of it.”
Her husband and 2-year-old son were also at the shoot, helping create some of these truly breathtaking images.
Ferris connected with photographer JoAnn Marrero (who you may know from this other famous pregnancy photo shoot), who told People it was really important for her to capture Lauren's personality and lifestyle.
She and her family live a healthy, fit life, and she loves going to CrossFit. I want other people to see the raw beauty in being pregnant and how helpful it is to stay in shape not only for wellness, but for stress relief, shorter labor times, easier pushing, emotional wellness during childbirth and a much quicker recovery.
Oh, I see the beauty in it, all right.
I mean, look at her.
Ferris says working out through her first pregnancy had real benefits, and that as long as she is able to continue to do it, she will.
She explains,
I don't lift super heavy, and there are a few things you really can't do, like anything on your back or ab exercises, but other than that, there's slight modifications here and there. As long as I feel good, I do it. I listen to my body — I think that's really important. It's amazing how much you can still do.
Here are some more pics from the beautiful shoot.
Definitely wouldn't want to play against her in tug-of-war.
Sure, sure, sure. Me, too.
Just like that, but not pregnant.
Pregnant, fit AND upside down?! Check, check and check.
Fingers crossed they name the beautiful babe Hercules.
Citations: Fit Mom Sets Her Maternity Photo Shoot in a CrossFit Studio (People Magazine), 6 Miscarriages Inspired This Mom's Jaw-Dropping Rainbow Baby Photo Shoot (Popsugar)
